Cylinders in the Pharmaceutical Industry

In pharmaceutical and medical environments, cleanliness, precision, and safety are non-negotiable. Pneumatic cylinders are a key component in many automated processes across this sector — offering reliable, controlled motion in applications where hygiene standards and consistent operation are critical.Pneumatic cylinders are widely used in tasks such as dosing, tablet pressing, sterile packaging, vial filling, inspection, and sample handling. Whether integrated into a large production line or compact lab automation equipment, these actuators help streamline operations while maintaining strict cleanroom standards.

ISO 6432 Round Cylinders

These slim, compact cylinders are designed for precision actuation in clean and sterile environments. Manufactured from stainless steel, ISO 6432 round cylinders are commonly found in lab automation equipment, dosing systems, and light mechanical operations where hygiene and corrosion resistance are essential. Their small form factor allows them to be mounted easily into benchtop machinery or compact enclosures without compromising cleanliness or performance.

Why:
The stainless steel construction offers excellent resistance to cleaning chemicals, moisture, and bacterial build-up. Their round, polished body makes them easy to sterilise and reduces the risk of contaminants settling — perfect for cleanroom and aseptic applications.

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ISO 15552 Profile Cylinders

Built for more robust operations, ISO 15552 stainless steel profile cylinders are ideal for high-cycle pharmaceutical applications such as blister packaging, large-scale filling systems, and conveyor operations. These cylinders provide a high degree of modularity, allowing for the addition of sensors and mounting accessories, which is essential in controlled production environments that require detailed monitoring and feedback.

Why:
Their durable design supports 24/7 operation in demanding pharmaceutical facilities, while the stainless steel finish ensures long-term corrosion resistance and compliance with hygiene regulations. These cylinders combine strength with hygiene, ideal for larger systems.

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Clean Profile Compact Cylinders

Compact cylinders with a hygienic profile are specially developed for use in confined, clean environments. These are often installed in automated medical device assembly machines, sealing systems, and precision filling equipment. With their short stroke and small size, they fit neatly into tight spots without sacrificing actuation power. Their smooth exterior and enclosed form also minimise the risk of particle entrapment.

Why:
Compact and hygienic in design, these cylinders are easy to clean and perfect for machines where every millimetre counts. They are engineered for environments that demand both space efficiency and uncompromising cleanliness.

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Guided Cylinders (Twin Rod or Slide Units)

Guided cylinders offer superior motion control and anti-rotation properties, making them ideal for applications that involve precise alignment, such as syringe assembly, medical packaging, and pharmaceutical inspection processes. Their design includes twin rods or internal guidance systems that ensure the load moves straight and consistently throughout the stroke.

Why:
Accuracy is crucial in the medical sector — and guided cylinders deliver just that. They prevent side play and twisting, ensuring delicate components are handled gently and placed with precision every time.

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Why Pneumatic Cylinders Are Used in the Medical Industry

The medical and pharmaceutical industries demand exceptional levels of cleanliness, precision, and reliability — and pneumatic cylinders are a natural fit. Their ability to deliver controlled, repeatable motion without the risk of contamination makes them ideal for a wide range of automated applications in sterile environments.

Unlike hydraulic systems that use oil and fluids, pneumatic cylinders run on clean, compressed air. This eliminates the risk of leaks or contamination, making them well-suited to cleanrooms, labs, and sterile production zones. Whether it’s filling syringes, assembling devices, or handling diagnostic trays, pneumatic cylinders provide the consistent, non-contact motion that delicate medical processes require.

Their versatility also makes them valuable across both large-scale pharmaceutical production lines and compact lab automation setups. With options ranging from stainless steel ISO cylinders to compact hygienic designs, they can be adapted to suit everything from high-speed packaging systems to benchtop testing equipment.

Additionally, pneumatic cylinders offer fast actuation, minimal maintenance, and simple integration with existing automation. Their compatibility with CIP (Clean-in-Place) and SIP (Sterilise-in-Place) procedures allows for effortless incorporation into sanitary systems that operate 24/7.

FAQ'S

1. Why are pneumatic cylinders used in pharmaceutical and medical applications instead of hydraulic or electric actuators?

Answer:
Pneumatic cylinders are clean, reliable, and require no lubrication that could contaminate sterile environments. Unlike hydraulic systems, they don’t use oil-based fluids, and they generate less heat than electric actuators. This makes them a safer, more hygienic choice for use in cleanrooms, labs, and production lines where contamination must be avoided.


2. What materials are best suited for cylinders used in pharmaceutical environments?

Answer:
Stainless steel is the preferred material for pharmaceutical and medical applications. It resists corrosion, withstands aggressive cleaning agents, and has a smooth surface that prevents bacterial accumulation. Stainless steel ISO 6432 and ISO 15552 cylinders are especially common due to their compliance with industry hygiene standards.


3. Can pneumatic cylinders operate in cleanroom environments?

Answer:
Yes. Many pneumatic cylinders are specifically designed for cleanroom use, with features such as minimal particle generation, enclosed housings, and stainless steel construction. Cleanroom-rated cylinders help maintain sterile conditions while providing precise and repeatable motion control for sensitive processes.

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Pharmaceutical & Medical Pneumatic Cylinders